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Ukraine Launches Attacks on Russian Oil Facilities Following US Sanction Waiver

KVIA•Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 1:39 PM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

In a significant escalation, Ukraine targeted two Russian oil refineries and other key oil installations shortly after the US renewed a waiver allowing the sale of sanctioned Russian oil until May 16. The strikes, which hit facilities in the Samara and Krasnodar regions, as well as Crimea, were confirmed by Ukrainian drone forces commander Robert Brovdi. The Russian Ministry of Defense reported intercepting 258 Ukrainian drones but did not acknowledge the attacks. The US Treasury's decision to extend the waiver is seen as controversial, especially as it could potentially facilitate the sale of an additional 100 million barrels of Russian oil, impacting global oil prices and financing for the ongoing war. This situation underscores the complex interplay between military actions and economic policies in the ongoing conflict.

Key Details: • US waiver on Russian oil sales extended until May 16. • Ukraine struck oil facilities in Samara, Krasnodar, and Crimea. • Russian officials reported fires and damage at targeted sites. • The waiver could allow the sale of an additional 100 million barrels of oil.

sanctions conflict ukraine russia oil

People & Organizations

KrasnodarScott BessentInternational Energy AgencyUS Treasury DepartmentRobert BrovdiKirill DmitrievNovokuybyshevskSyzranSevastopolVysotsk

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